Happy Friday from #OneUtah, a weekly update from the office of Gov. Spencer J. Cox. Here’s your recap of what we did this week, what's on the horizon, and more. Thank you for subscribing!

Taking the Utah Way worldwide

This week we led a delegation of Utah businesses and organizations on a trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo, Japan. Organized by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and World Trade Center Utah, international trade missions reinforce Utah’s commitment to foster global partnerships and drive economic prosperity. 

The 2024 mission forged economic ties in key sectors, including manufacturing, aerospace and defense, life sciences and health care, innovation, financial services, and fintech. This visit builds on previous trips to South Korea in 2018 and Japan in 2019, demonstrating Utah’s dedication to nurturing long-term economic partnerships in Asia.

Highlights from the 2024 Trade Mission: 

• We met with President Yoon Sek Yeol to announce a new Delta direct flight from Seoul to Salt Lake City beginning June 2025.

• We discussed strengthening economic ties and boosting investment opportunities with Minister Ahn and Utah’s new trade representative. 

• We discussed future collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il.

• The University of Utah Asia Campus celebrated its 10th anniversary.

• We signed a four-year action plan with South Korean Gov. Dong Yeon Kim, renewing their sister-state relationship on its 41st anniversary.

• The delegation met with the Japan Association of Defence Industry, IHI, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and 47G to discuss the future of aerospace and defense.  

• The delegation met with the Japanese Vice Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry to collaborate on energy, minerals and business opportunities. 

• We thanked Mitsubishi for investing in Utah's ACES project, one of the largest hydrogen facilities worldwide, and choosing rural Utah for this energy investment.

• We met with NTT Chairman Jun Sawada to discuss future collaboration. NTT, a leading ICT company, has invested $19 billion in the U.S.

Thanks to all the business leaders who joined us in showing the world why they should invest in Utah!

Practicing good government 

Good government starts with good customer service! With the customer experience initiative, we’re empowering our state agencies through the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget to provide responsive, efficient and effective services. The Utah State Tax Commission provides good customer service by listening to customer feedback and improving the way they provide services to Utahns. Learn more here.

Moving Utah Together

This week Lt. Gov. Henderson spoke at the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations Annual Conference. The event highlighted transportation professionals and the unified vision we have for transportation across the state and region. Lt. Gov. Henderson was joined by three other leaders to answer questions and discuss the direction that the transportation industry was moving within Utah. The event featured several vendors and leaders who are working to make a difference.

State of Elections in Utah

Happy Fall, Utah!

It is officially fall in the Beehive State! While high temperatures remain in the valleys, the mountains have begun to change color. There are so many exciting things to do this time of year to enjoy this beautiful season. You can take a drive or hike up your local canyon to admire the beautiful leaves and enjoy the crisp air. Find yourself a nearby fall festival or farmers market and try some of the end-of-harvest produce native to our state. Or, if you’re looking for a unique adventure, take a trip to one of our rivers and watch the kokanee salmon run. Remember to recreate safely as you explore all the things our state has to offer! Learn more about fall recreation here!

ICYMI

Three Utah schools were named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Congratulations to Edgemont Elementary School, River Heights Elementary School and Bella Vista School! You make Utah proud! Learn more here.

Coming up

• Oct. 7–9: We’re looking forward to the One Utah Summit in Cedar City next week!

Get involved!

Looking for a new job opportunity? With great employee benefits and versatile work schedules, the career opportunities with the state are truly rewarding. Join Team Utah today! 

Those looking to volunteer can also consider more than 300 boards and commissions. Find out which openings are available and how you can get involved here!

Get in touch!